COGNITIVE multi-store model

Question 1

define the term cognitive psychology

Answer 1

how behaviour is affected by cognitive processes

Question 2

define the term memory

Answer 2

our ability to encode, store, retain and recall information and past experiences

Question 3

The Multi-Store Model

who created this theory

Answer 3

Atkinson and Shiffrin

Question 4

Multi- Store Model

define information processing

Answer 4

the idea that information is processed in a linear way meaning it flows through the brain in a way that is logical

Question 5

Multi- Store Model

define encoding

Answer 5

the way in which information is registered as a memory e.g. sound or smell

Question 6

Multi- Store Model

define storage

Answer 6

how the information remains as a memory once it is registered

Question 7

Multi- Store Model

define retrieval

Answer 7

how we find and access stored memories

Question 8

Multi- Store Model

define capacity

Answer 8

the size of the memory store - how much information can be held

Question 9

Multi- Store Model

define duration

Answer 9

how long information remains in the memory store

Question 10

Multi- Store Model

how do memories disappear from the STM

Answer 10

displacement or decay

Question 11

Multi-Store Model

how do memories disappear from the LTM

Answer 11

inteference

Question 12

Multi- Store Model

what is the duration, capacity, and encoding of the sensory store

Answer 12

• duration - o.5 to 2 seconds
• capacity - very large
• encoding - modality specific - the 5 senses

Question 13

Multi- Store Model

what is the duration, capacity, and encoding of the STM

Answer 13

• duration - 18 to 30 seconds
• capacity - 5 +/- 2
• encoding - acoustically (sound)

Question 14

Multi- Store Model

what is the duration, capacity, and encoding of the LTM

Answer 14

• duration - lifetime
• capacity - unlimited
• encoding - semantic

Question 15

Multi- Store Model

positive evaluation points

Answer 15

• credible - most evidence used to support the MSM is obtained from highly controlled lab experiments - memory ability was measured objectively
• useful application - can help people with dementia to rehearse information via memory aids e.g. diaries or repetition
• supporting evidence - HM had a STM functioning normally but couldn’t rehearse information to LTM (no hippocampus) - shows the two seperate stores

Question 16

Multi- Store Model

negative evaluation points

Answer 16

• alternative expanation - Working Memory Model better expanation for STM - explores both visual and verbal memories
• reductionist - isolates just three specific memory stores even though memory = very complex - ignores other ways memories could be created e.g. flashback memories
• refuting evidence - KF had a LTM functioning normallty despite his STM being damaged - shows that STM doesn’t transfer to the LTM